Monuments and cenotaphs recognize the commitment and sacrifices of Canadians who have served. They are a public space to remember the selfless duty of Canadians who have bravely put their lives on the line in the defence of peace and freedom. These monuments and cenotaphs also give future generations an opportunity to learn and remember.
The National War Memorial, also called “The Response”, was built after the First World War and symbolizes the sacrifices of all Canadians who have served in the cause of peace and freedom. It is the site of Canada's annual national Remembrance Day ceremony, organized by the Royal Canadian Legion. It was also the site where Corporal Nathan Cirillo tragically passed away on October 22, 2014.
Over the years, the highly visible and prolific memorial has been rededicated to include other conflicts and missions. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was added to the memorial in 2000 and serves as a reminder to all Canadians of the human cost of our country's commitment to peace and freedom. The richly symbolic National Aboriginal Veterans Monument was unveiled in 2001. The sculpture is a tribute to the many indigenous peoples who served for, and defended the freedom of our country over the years. It reflects traditional—